Quick Summary: Replacing your Subaru Forester key fob battery is a simple DIY task. Most Forester models use a common CR2032 coin cell battery, readily available and easy to install. Following these steps will restore your key fob’s functionality quickly and affordably.

Battery for Subaru Forester Key Fob: Essential Power for Your Adventures

Is your Subaru Forester key fob acting up? Do you get that sinking feeling when you press a button and nothing happens? You’re not alone! A dead key fob battery can be a real bummer, especially when you’re in a hurry or just want to get into your car without a fuss. Luckily, this is usually a super simple fix that you can do yourself, saving you time and money. No need to call a dealership or a fancy auto shop for this one!

We’ve all been there – fumbling with a key that doesn’t want to unlock the doors, or trying to start the car only to find it’s not recognizing the fob. It’s frustrating, right? The good news is that the power behind your Forester’s key fob is just a small, inexpensive battery. And changing it is about as complicated as changing a watch battery. In this guide, Roy Walker, your trusted power expert, will walk you through exactly what you need to know. We’ll cover which battery you’ll likely need, the simple tools required, and a step-by-step guide to get your key fob working like new again. Let’s dive in and get your Forester’s key fob powered up and ready to go!

Why Does My Key Fob Battery Die?

Think of your key fob battery like any other rechargeable battery – it has a lifespan. Over time, the power inside just gets used up. Every time you press a button to lock, unlock, or pop the trunk, you’re using a little bit of that battery’s energy. Even when it’s just sitting in your pocket or on a table, it might use a tiny bit of power to stay ready to communicate with your car. Plus, extreme temperatures – both hot and cold – can sometimes make the battery drain faster.

If your Forester is a few years old, or if you use your unlock button a lot (who doesn’t?), it’s perfectly normal for the battery to eventually need replacing. It’s just a sign of good use!

Identifying Your Subaru Forester Key Fob Type

Subaru has used a couple of different key fob styles for the Forester over the years. Most commonly, you’ll find two main types:

• Integrated Key Fob: This type looks like a standard key, but the buttons are built right into the handle.
• Separate Key Fob and Key: This is where you have a distinct key for ignition and doors, and a separate fob with buttons for remote functions.

The battery replacement process is very similar for most modern Subaru Forester key fobs. You’re likely dealing with a flat, circular battery that pops out easily. The most common type used is the CR2032 3-volt lithium coin cell battery. You can usually find this in the battery aisle at most supermarkets, drug stores, or electronics stores. If you’re unsure, a quick peek at your owner’s manual or a search for your specific Forester year and model online will confirm the exact battery type. But rest assured, the CR2032 is the go-to for a vast majority of these fobs. It’s a reliable power source for this small device.

What You’ll Need for the Job

The beauty of replacing your Subaru Forester key fob battery is that you don’t need a workshop full of tools. In fact, you might already have most of what you need at home. Here’s a simple checklist:

• The Correct Replacement Battery: As mentioned, this is most likely a CR2032 3-volt lithium coin cell battery.
• A Small Flathead Screwdriver or Similar Prying Tool: A small flathead screwdriver is perfect. If you don’t have one, a plastic trim removal tool, a butter knife (use the dull edge!), or even a sturdy fingernail can sometimes work. The goal is to gently pry open a seam. Sometimes, a guitar pick can do the trick for less durable fobs.
• A Soft Cloth or Paper Towel: This is to protect the key fob from scratches while you’re working on it.
• Optional: Needle-Nose Pliers: Sometimes, the old battery can be a little stubborn to remove, and these can help gently grip and pull it out.

Remember, the key here is to be gentle. You don’t need force; a little careful prying is all it takes. Think of it like carefully opening a locket – you want access without breaking anything.

Step-by-Step Guide: Replacing Your Forester Key Fob Battery

Ready to get your key fob back in action? Let’s walk through it. This process is designed to be super clear, step by step.

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace and Fob

Find a clean, well-lit area to work. Lay down a soft cloth or paper towel first. This will prevent your key fob from getting scratched or rolling away. Take your key fob and examine it. Look for a small seam around the edge where the two halves of the casing meet. Some fobs might have a tiny notch or slot designed to help you pry them open.

Step 2: Open the Key Fob Casing

This is where your prying tool comes in. Gently insert the tip of your flathead screwdriver (or chosen tool) into the seam. You’re looking to create a small gap. Twist the screwdriver very gently to pry the two halves of the fob apart. Don’t force it! If it feels stuck, try moving the screwdriver along the seam to find a spot where it gives a little more easily. Work your way around the edge if needed. Be patient. Once you have a small gap, you might be able to use your fingernails or the tool to carefully separate the two halves further. You’re aiming to pop the cover off, revealing the circuit board and battery inside.

Some Subaru fobs have a small screw holding them together, often hidden. Check carefully for any tiny screws before attempting to pry. If you see one, you’ll need a very small Phillips head or flathead screwdriver to remove it first.

Step 3: Remove the Old Battery

Once the fob is open, you’ll see the circular coin cell battery. It’s usually nestled in a tray or held in place by a small clip. If it’s loose, carefully lift it out. If it’s a bit snug, use your flathead screwdriver or needle-nose pliers to gently pry it up and out. Note the orientation of the battery – which side is facing up. This is important because the new battery needs to go in the same way.

Safety Tip: Lithium coin cell batteries are small and can be a choking hazard for children and pets. Keep them away from them and dispose of them properly.

Step 4: Insert the New Battery

Take your new CR2032 battery. Make sure it’s clean and dry. Look at how the old battery was positioned. The positive side (usually marked with a ‘+’ symbol) typically faces upwards. Carefully place the new battery into the battery tray or compartment, ensuring it’s seated correctly and making good contact. Press down gently to secure it. It should fit snugly.

Step 5: Reassemble the Key Fob

Now, carefully align the two halves of the key fob casing. Gently press them together. You should hear or feel them snap back into place. If you removed a screw, reinsert and tighten it now. Make sure there are no gaps around the seam.

Step 6: Test Your Key Fob

The moment of truth! Take your reassembled key fob and try it out. Press the lock and unlock buttons. Does the car respond? Try the trunk release. Everything should work smoothly. If it doesn’t, don’t panic. Double-check that the battery is inserted correctly, that the contacts are clean, and that the fob is fully closed. Sometimes, a second try is all it takes.

If your key fob still isn’t working after replacing the battery, there might be a deeper issue with the fob itself or the car’s receiver. However, for most common problems, a new battery is the solution.

Troubleshooting Common Key Fob Issues

Even with a new battery, you might run into a snag. Here are some common issues and how to tackle them:

• Fob still not working:
  • Double-check the battery orientation. The ‘+’ side is usually up.
  • Ensure the battery is making good contact. Clean the metal contacts inside the fob if they look corroded.
  • Make sure the fob is fully closed and snapped together securely.
  • Try a different brand of CR2032 battery. Occasionally, a battery might be faulty out of the package.
• Buttons feel sticky:
  • If you accessed the internal components, there might be debris on the rubber button contacts or the circuit board. Gently clean them with a dry cotton swab.
• Car won’t start even with fob working for doors:
  • Your Forester has an immobilizer system that requires the fob’s chip to be recognized. If the battery is weak, it might still operate door locks but not communicate with the immobilizer. A fresh battery usually solves this. If not, it could indicate a more complex issue requiring professional diagnosis.

When to Consider a New Key Fob

While battery replacement is usually straightforward, sometimes the key fob itself can get damaged. If your fob has been dropped repeatedly, submerged in water, or if the internal components are visibly broken, it might be time for a new one. You can often purchase replacement fobs from Subaru dealerships or specialized automotive key sellers online. You’ll then need to have it programmed to your vehicle, which is typically done by a dealership or a locksmith specializing in car keys.

Battery Maintenance Beyond the Key Fob

As Roy Walker, I often get asked about other power sources. While your key fob uses a tiny coin cell, your Subaru Forester itself relies on a much more substantial car battery. These batteries are the powerhouse for starting your engine, running your lights, and all your car’s electrical systems. Car batteries have a much longer lifespan, typically 3-5 years, but can also be affected by climate and usage.

If you’re experiencing slow cranking when starting your car, flickering lights, or warning lights on your dashboard, it might be time to get your car battery checked. Most auto parts stores offer free battery testing. Replacing a car battery is a bit more involved than a key fob, but still a manageable DIY task for many. Always remember to disconnect the negative terminal first and reconnect it last to avoid short circuits. For safety, wear gloves and eye protection. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to have a professional handle car battery replacement.

Beyond car batteries, we rely on power for our portable devices too. Phone batteries degrade over time, leading to shorter usage between charges. Chargers can fail, and power banks are lifesavers for keeping our gadgets running on the go. Understanding the basics of these power sources ensures we stay connected and powered up.

For more on managing your various power needs, resources like the SAE International’s automotive battery articles offer in-depth technical details for those interested in deeper dives, while general guides are readily available.

Battery Options for Your Subaru Forester Key Fob

When you need to replace the battery for your Subaru Forester key fob, you have a few options:

For the Subaru Forester key fob, the CR2032 is by far the most common and recommended choice. You can find these in multipacks, which is convenient so you have a spare ready for the next time.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Your Forester Key Fob Battery

Q1: How often do I need to replace my Subaru Forester key fob battery?

A: Most key fob batteries last between 2 to 5 years. This depends on how often you use the fob and the battery’s quality. You’ll usually notice it weakening when the range decreases or it stops working altogether.

Q2: Can I use a rechargeable battery in my key fob?

A: No, standard key fobs like those for the Subaru Forester are designed for disposable 3V lithium coin cell batteries. They are not equipped to handle the lower and variable voltage of rechargeable batteries, which can cause malfunction or damage.

Q3: My key fob is completely dead. Does this always mean the battery is dead?

A: Most of the time, yes. A dead key fob is overwhelmingly caused by a depleted battery. However, in rare cases, the fob itself might be damaged from impact or water exposure, or there could be a deeper issue with the car’s receiver.

Q4: What happens if I put the battery in backwards?

A: If you insert the battery backwards, the key fob simply won’t work. It’s designed to only make proper contact and function when inserted with the correct polarity (usually positive side up). It’s unlikely to cause damage, but it won’t power the fob.

Q5: Where can I buy a replacement battery for my key fob?

A: You can easily find CR2032 batteries at most supermarkets, drug stores, convenience stores, and electronics retailers (like Best Buy or Amazon). They are usually found in the battery aisle or with small electronic accessories.

Q6: My Forester’s key fob battery was replaced, but the car still won’t start. What could be wrong?

A: If the doors unlock and lock fine but the car won’t start, it suggests the battery is providing some power, but perhaps not enough for the car’s immobilizer system to recognize the fob’s security chip. Ensure the battery is fresh and correctly installed. If problems persist, there might be an issue with the car’s immobilizer system or the key fob itself that requires professional attention from a dealership or a specialized automotive locksmith.

Conclusion: Powering Up Your Forester’s Convenience

There you have it! Replacing the battery in your Subaru Forester key fob is a straightforward, budget-friendly task that can restore convenience to your daily drives. No special tools or advanced knowledge are needed – just a little patience and the right battery. By following these simple steps, you can ensure your key fob is always ready to unlock your Forester and start your journey.

Remember, a little bit of proactive maintenance, like knowing when to replace a dying fob battery, can save you a lot of hassle down the road. Whether it’s a tiny coin cell in your key fob or the robust battery keeping your car running, understanding their power needs is key to keeping things moving smoothly. Keep your Forester powered up and ready for all your adventures!